Nowadays, people are living longer. The quality of someone’s life as they enter their geriatric season is a direct result of both their physical and mental health. Dr Topaz recently talked with Dr. Kristin Jones, who is double board certified in adult and geriatric psychiatry. Dr. Jones underscores the importance of not labeling mental health issues in the elderly as just ‘getting old’. Seniors experience depression and anxiety just like other age groups, but the symptoms may not manifest the same ways that they do for our youth or middle-aged adults. Your children cannot be a litmus for how mental health concerns will show up in your parents. The inability to manage daily functions, and a pronounced lack of interest in activities once enjoyed, Dr. Jones cautions us to view as possible mental health concerns. Depression and anxiety are not a normal part of aging.

The topics discussed in this episode will really hit home for those who identify as being a part of the sandwich generation, adults who care for both their children and their parents. Now that we know different, let’s support our elderly differently.

Let’s establish an interconnected community that is committed to creating strong minds and soft lives, no matter your age! Listening to this podcast is an investment in yourself. And when you are better, we are all better.

Join us, Sisters…and Grandmothers, and Great Aunties too!